Public invited to view space shuttle mock-up as it moves to Downey

DOWNEY - The public is invited next week to witness the move of the space shuttle mock-up in Downey as it is transported to its new location.

The original full-size mock-up, built in 1972 by Rockwell International, will be moved from its current warehouse location to the Downey Studios parking lot, 12214 Lakewood Blvd., where it will be housed under a temporary tent for public viewing.

To mark the event, the city will host a special event 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday at the Downey Studios parking lot.

The first section of the shuttle is scheduled to arrive in the parking lot about 11 a.m. Entertainment, interactive activities for children and a special ceremony at noon are planned.

"We are excited to have this historic shuttle on display here in Downey," Mayor Roger Brossmer said in a statement. "Our city is proud to have such a rich aerospace history, and we hope that this is the first of several steps to getting a permanent home for our mock-up."

The city hopes to preserve and restore the 122-foot-by-78-foot shuttle, which has been in storage for decades, and build a permanent facility for the model.

For now, it will remain under a temporary tent until the city has the funds needed, about $2 million, to construct that facility.

The new shuttle building would be adjacent to the Columbia Memorial Space Center, the city's hands-on learning center dedicated to teaching children about science and space exploration.

"Having this exciting shuttle mock-up attraction next to the Columbia Memorial Space Center will not only help further the space center's educational programs, but it will provide visitors with a unique experience that will help engage and inspire the next generation of explorers," Brossmer said.

Parking will be available around the neighboring area, including along Columbia Way and Steve Horn Way.